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Short for Multiprotocol Label Switching, an IETF initiative that integrates Layer 2 information about network links (bandwidth, latency, utilization) into Layer 3 (IP) within a particular autonomous system--or ISP--in order to simplify and improve IP-packet exchange. MPLS gives network operators a great deal of flexibility to divert and route traffic around link failures, congestion, and bottlenecks. From a QoS standpoint, ISPs will better be able to manage different kinds of data streams based on priority and service plan. For instance, those who subscribe to a premium service plan, or those who receive a lot of streaming media or high-bandwidth content can see minimal latency and packet loss. When packets enter a MPLS-based network, Label Edge Routers (LERs) give them a label (identifier). These labels not only contain information based on the routing table entry (i.e., destination, bandwidth, delay, and other metrics), but also refer to the IP header field (source IP address), Layer 4 socket number information, and differentiated service. Once this classification is complete and mapped, different packets are assigned to corresponding Labeled Switch Paths (LSPs), where Label Switch Routers (LSRs) place outgoing labels on the packets. With these LSPs, network operators can divert and route traffic based on data-stream type and Internet-access customer.
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 Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) Traffic Engineering 
Cisco document describing MPLS traffic engineering, with details on how it works.
IETF MPLS Working Group Charter
Describes the IETF MPLS working group and includes contact and mailing list information and links to Internet Draft documents.
MPLS Resource Center
Provides news, information, and resources for the IETF's Multiprotocol Label Switching Standard. Home to the MPLS-OPS Mailing List.
Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS)
This tutorial provides an in-depth look at the technology behind MPLS, with an emphasis on the protocols involved.
NetworkWorld: MPLS
Your source for the latest MPLS news and resources from Network World.
Open Networks Today
Networking news moves at a fast pace, and Open Networks Today lets you keep up with it. Open Networks Today offers its readers the ability to control how news is presented through customizing content filters, discussions, and news feed links.
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